194 5 Mistakes Podcasters Make with Their Microphone (and How to Fix Them)

I have 5 key tips on how you master your microphone and make your show sound even better.

Sorry if this bruises your ego but they're probably multitasking while listening to your podcast. They could be doing household chores, walking the dog, or commuting. If they have to strain to hear what you're saying, your podcast instantly becomes annoying. Was that your goal? No, no it wasn't. So, let's stop annoying your listener and give them the sound quality they deserve!

In this episode, I break down the top 5 mistakes podcasters make with their microphones and, most importantly, how to correct them. 

Mistake number 1: Using wireless mics. I'll tell you upfront; it's a no-go for professional podcasting. But you don't need to break the bank on a fancy microphone. All we're aiming for is clean and clear audio quality, and an $80 Dynamic USB mic does the job. Dynamic mics are more forgiving and perfect for podcasting. I recommend starting with a Samson QU2 or the Audio-Technica ATR 2100. The key is that they are wired into your recording device.

Mistake number 2: Using your microphone incorrectly. Different microphones require different techniques. You must know what kind of mic you have and how to use it. Mic placement is critical, so much, it was my FIRST EPISODE and you can find more information on this in my YouTube videos. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuQxy7shV3Y

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0W7B7kxQdmc

Mistake number 3: Not using a pop filter. Those plosives and breathiness can be real show-stoppers. Think about your listeners using earbuds or noise-canceling headphones; every 'P' you pop feels like a punch to the ear. Invest in a pop screen or a foam muff for your microphone, or better yet, get both!

Mistake number 4: not paying attention to your microphone settings. If you ignore this, you might end up recording with the laptop's onboard mic, and that's brutal. Test, for the love of podcast gods, test! Here's how a pen can help: https://podcastperformancecoach.com/124-three-reasons-great-podcasters-want-to-have-a-pen-handy/

Mistake number 5: Not being mic-aware. You don't want to drift away from the mic as you record. Pay attention to your microphone's placement. Know where the mic is in relation to your mouth. Check out episode 166 for more: https://podcastperformancecoach.com/166-how-to-avoid-the-annoying-podcast-mic-fade/

And remember, these 5 mistakes apply to your guests too. It's YOUR job to make sure they know how to use their microphones correctly. Listen to how they sound, test, and guide them before hitting the record button. If they drift off or start to sound off, pause the interview and fix it. Don't make your listeners choose between annoyance and not listening.

Do your listeners a favor and care about their listening experience. It will make you sound better and increase the chances that they become fans and customers. Your authority and credibility are on the line.

So, make sure you use the right microphone, learn how to use it correctly, including using a pop screen, test it every time, and stay mic-aware. Make sure your guests adhere to the same standards. There's no excuse for